Colour Vision Testing & Reports

What is Colour Vision Deficiency?

Colour vision deficiency (often called colour blindness) affects how people perceive certain colours, particularly reds and greens. It’s usually inherited and present from birth, though in some cases it can be acquired later in life through disease or medication. Most people with colour vision deficiency don’t realize they see colours differently until they’re tested.

Why Colour Vision Testing Matters:

For Children: Colour vision plays a surprising role in early education. From color-coded learning materials to art class, science experiments to map reading, children with undiagnosed colour vision deficiencies may struggle unnecessarily or feel confused when asked to identify colours they can’t distinguish.

Early testing helps:

• Teachers understand and adapt teaching methods
• Children understand why certain tasks feel confusing
• Parents provide appropriate support and advocacy
• Career guidance counsellors offer realistic advice about future professions

For Adults: Many careers have colour vision requirements that candidates may not be aware of until they apply. Testing before you commit to training or education can prevent disappointment and wasted time.

Quick, Easy, and Accurate Testing:

Our colour vision test is straightforward and takes just a few minutes. We use standardized testing methods that accurately identify the type and severity of any colour vision deficiency. The test is suitable for children and adults alike, and most people find it quite interesting to complete.

Official Colour Vision Reports:

We provide certified colour vision reports required for:

• Aviation: Pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation engineers
• Maritime Careers: Ship navigation and marine engineering
• Electrical and Engineering Trades: Where colour-coded wiring is used
• Transportation: Train drivers, bus drivers, and certain driving roles
• Emergency Services: Fire service, police, and ambulance roles
• Arts and Design: For those who want professional confirmation
• Military Service: Where specific colour vision standards apply

Types of Colour Vision Deficiency:

The most common form is red-green colour deficiency, which makes it difficult to distinguish between reds, greens, browns, and oranges. Less common is blue-yellow deficiency, and very rarely, complete colour blindness (seeing only in shades of grey).

Understanding the specific type of colour vision deficiency helps in:

• Choosing appropriate careers
• Using tools and apps designed to help
• Understanding why certain situations feel challenging
• Advocating for accommodations when needed

Living with Colour Vision Deficiency:

While there’s no cure for inherited colour vision deficiency, knowing about it empowers people to adapt and succeed. Many people with colour deficiency thrive in their careers and daily lives – they’ve simply learned to use other cues like brightness, position, or context to identify what others identify by colour alone.

For School-Age Children:

If we identify a colour vision deficiency in your child, we’ll provide guidance on:

• Informing teachers and schools
• Strategies to help with colour-dependent tasks
• Career considerations for the future
• Apps and tools that can help

When to Get Tested:

We recommend colour vision testing:

• For all children around school age (4-6 years old)
• Before choosing academic paths or careers with colour requirements
• If you’ve noticed difficulty distinguishing certain colours
• For career application requirements
• If there’s a family history of colour vision deficiency

Peace of Mind and Practical Answers:

Whether you need an official report for career purposes or simply want to understand your or your child’s colour vision, our quick and accurate testing provides clear answers and practical guidance.